Introduction:
Golden Meat Pie with Flaky Dough is a delightful and savory pastry dish filled with seasoned meat, usually beef or lamb, wrapped in a buttery, golden, and crispy crust. This classic comfort food is loved for its rich filling and flaky dough that melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or as a satisfying meal any day of the week. You can customize the filling to your taste, making it versatile for all preferences.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet crust)
For the filling:
1 lb ground beef (or lamb, chicken, or your preferred meat)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional, for added texture)
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Salt, to taste
1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)
1/4 cup grated carrots (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts coming together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the diced potatoes (if using), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the liquid has reduced.
Add the peas and carrots (if using) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed, then set the filling aside to cool.
Assemble the Pies:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into circles large enough to fit your pie dish or muffin tin.
Spoon the cooled filling onto the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then pinch the edges to seal tightly. You can crimp the edges for a decorative look.
Brush the top of each pie with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake:
Arrange the pies on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
Description:
Golden Meat Pie with Flaky Dough offers a warm, savory, and comforting meal with a perfect balance of tender meat filling and crispy, golden pastry. The filling can be tailored to include different meats or vegetables, while the buttery, flaky crust provides a satisfying crunch with every bite. This pie makes for an excellent main dish or appetizer and pairs wonderfully with a side salad or mashed potatoes.
Tips:
Use cold butter for the dough to achieve a flaky texture.
If the dough is too dry, add a few more drops of ice water until it just comes together.
You can make the dough and filling ahead of time. Simply refrigerate the dough and filling separately, then assemble and bake when ready.
For extra richness, add a little bit of cream or sour cream to the filling.
Don’t overfill the pies to avoid spillage when baking.
Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
Chicken & Mushroom Pie: Swap beef for chicken and add sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
Cheese & Herb: Mix in shredded cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary into the filling for added flavor.
Corrections:
Make sure the dough isn’t overworked, as it can become tough and lose its flakiness.
If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the pies a little longer, but be cautious not to burn the edges.
If you’re using a muffin tin, check the pies early to ensure they don’t overcook.
Enjoy:
Once the pies are baked and golden, enjoy them warm from the oven. Their flaky, buttery crust paired with the savory filling is sure to delight your taste buds. Perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on your own as a comforting treat!